Discussing Paradigms of Philanthropy in New York

As an active member of the KolDor network, when I planned my first business trip to the United States as the Chief Business Officer of JGooders, I also helped plan a session for the group about the Jewish world and philanthropy.

KolDor seeks to build relationships between Jewish people worldwide and uses its network to spread innovative and creative ideas/initiatives in the Jewish world . Promoting Jewish Peoplehood, KolDor provides a platform for hundreds of leaders in their 20s-40s to network, share ideas and take action. JGooders and the revolutionary approach it takes to Jewish philanthropy is a Peoplehood initiative itself as it will be a global space for creating social change – and will allow organizations worldwide to learn from each and collaborate.

Despite the New York location, an international group of leaders and activists from both the institutional and grassroots worlds came together for what turned into quite the debate. I moderated the discussion which covered some fascinating issues including: The role of the “democratic giving” model (JGooders model), Jewish Peoplehood’s relationship to philanthropy, the accountability and transparency of non-profits and the role of for-profit entities in the philanthropic world, the role of individuals in creating social agendas, and the power dynamic in philanthropy.

The discussion really only touched the tip of the iceberg, so here are some questions to consider – and we’d love to hear your thoughts:
1.Should every person who makes a contribution have a say as to where exactly each contribution should be made— can this be beneficial or adversely affect non-profit organizations? Should this be in the hands of a professional organization or the individual donor?
2.Online giving has become the one of the main forms of contributing funds in the early 21st century. If this is the case, how can online donations be strengthened without the face-to-face aspect, previously considered necessary in order to initiate contributions?

A number of KolDor participants have already taken advantage of the JGooders platform to promote their projects – and more are on the way. Check some of them out here:
The Jewish Salons Pilot Project – spreading Jewish culture in Europe and Latin America in creative, modern venues
Media Central works with journalists based around Israel to help them cover stories accurately.
Omanoot – Israel Through Art – presenting the cultural, educational and diplomatic power of Israeli art including music, film, visual art and literature.
If you involved with an exciting and meaningful project that other people should know about – let us know so that you too can become part of the JGooders platform.

Tova Serkin is Chief Business Officer at JGooders.com

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